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Ben Koenig #1
Fearless
The first thrilling Ben Koenig book from The Sunday Times bestselling author of Dead Ground and The Botanist, featuring a brand-new hero.
Ben Koenig is nobody's hero . . . because he doesn't exist.
Six years back Ben Koenig headed up the US Marshal's Special Operations Group. They were the unit who hunted the bad guys. The really bad guys. They did this so no one else had to.
And then one day Ben sold his house, liquidated his assets and disappeared off the face of the earth. He told no one why and left no forwarding address. For six years he became a grey man. Someone you didn't remember. He drifted from town to town, from state to state, never visiting the same place twice. He was untraceable - officially, he no longer existed.
But now his face is plastered across every television screen in the country. Someone from Ben's past is going to extraordinary lengths to find him and they don't care how they do it. They have a job for him, a revenge mission, one Ben won't be able to refuse.
Because in the hellish heat of the Chihuahuan desert lies a town called Gauntlet. Some people in Gauntlet have a secret and they'll do anything protect it. And they know Ben is coming.
They've killed before and they'll kill again.
It's easy to dismiss Ben Koenig as just another drifter, someone you don't need to concern yourself about. But that would be a mistake. Because Ben has a condition, a unique disorder that means he is incapable of experiencing fear.
And that makes Ben Koenig a different kind of animal . . .
Ben Koenig is nobody's hero . . . because he doesn't exist.
Six years back Ben Koenig headed up the US Marshal's Special Operations Group. They were the unit who hunted the bad guys. The really bad guys. They did this so no one else had to.
And then one day Ben sold his house, liquidated his assets and disappeared off the face of the earth. He told no one why and left no forwarding address. For six years he became a grey man. Someone you didn't remember. He drifted from town to town, from state to state, never visiting the same place twice. He was untraceable - officially, he no longer existed.
But now his face is plastered across every television screen in the country. Someone from Ben's past is going to extraordinary lengths to find him and they don't care how they do it. They have a job for him, a revenge mission, one Ben won't be able to refuse.
Because in the hellish heat of the Chihuahuan desert lies a town called Gauntlet. Some people in Gauntlet have a secret and they'll do anything protect it. And they know Ben is coming.
They've killed before and they'll kill again.
It's easy to dismiss Ben Koenig as just another drifter, someone you don't need to concern yourself about. But that would be a mistake. Because Ben has a condition, a unique disorder that means he is incapable of experiencing fear.
And that makes Ben Koenig a different kind of animal . . .
416 pages, Hardcover
First published June 6, 2023
419 people are currently reading
13701 people want to read
About the author
M.W. Craven
47 books2,641 followersM. W. Craven was born in Carlisle but grew up in Newcastle, running away to join the army at the tender age of sixteen. He spent the next ten years travelling the world having fun, leaving in 1995 to complete a degree in social work with specialisms in criminology and substance misuse. Thirty-one years after leaving Cumbria, he returned to take up a probation officer position in Whitehaven, eventually working his way up to chief officer grade. Sixteen years later he took the plunge, accepted redundancy and became a full-time author. He now has entirely different motivations for trying to get inside the minds of criminals . . .
M. W. Craven is married and lives in Carlisle with his wife, Joanne. When he isn’t out with his springer spaniel, or talking nonsense in the pub, he can usually be found at punk gigs and writing festivals up and down the country.
M. W. Craven is married and lives in Carlisle with his wife, Joanne. When he isn’t out with his springer spaniel, or talking nonsense in the pub, he can usually be found at punk gigs and writing festivals up and down the country.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 640 reviews
August 22, 2023
It pains me to say this book was not for me and what a disappointment when all of the previous Craven books have been brilliant and 5 stars.
Koenig the main character was a human weapon of mass destruction. A ‘fearless’ killing machine that accumulated dead bodies every few pages in search of a kidnapped girl.
I don’t know what else to say about the plot other than Craven’s new protagonist was a lethal weapon brought in from the cold for a secret mission - to find and return his former bosses daughter and killed a lot of people in the process.
Too much gratuitous violence. Well written, fast paced and an edge of your seat thriller if you like this kind of thing.
Bring back Washington Poe please!!! I much prefer him to this Koenig character.
Koenig the main character was a human weapon of mass destruction. A ‘fearless’ killing machine that accumulated dead bodies every few pages in search of a kidnapped girl.
I don’t know what else to say about the plot other than Craven’s new protagonist was a lethal weapon brought in from the cold for a secret mission - to find and return his former bosses daughter and killed a lot of people in the process.
Too much gratuitous violence. Well written, fast paced and an edge of your seat thriller if you like this kind of thing.
Bring back Washington Poe please!!! I much prefer him to this Koenig character.
January 30, 2023
OMG! I’m addicted to action packed, adventurous, riveting writing style of M. W. Craven. I also adore his brewery choices as well!
As a devoted fan of Washington Poe& Tilly Bradshaw, I was so excited to get introduced with his brand new, badass, new hero Ben Koenig!
Koenig is eccentric, enigmatic, complex, extra layered character with full of surprises, reminding us Jack Reacher meets Jason Bourne kind of tight lipped, damaged loner who likes to do things in his own way. You have to peel his layers to learn more about his past, his secrets which is exciting and intriguing exploration.
Once upon a time he was the head officer of U. S. Marshal’s elite Special Operations Group. He resigned to lay low for his own personal reasons. But when he sees his face on TV, mentioning as the most wanted, he realizes something is terribly wrong!
His path crosses with his former boss who requests his corporation for a very special job that can be only done with his superior skills. Koenig has no intention to accept the job but he finds himself drawn into the missing woman’s case which leads him to a small town in the burning heat of the Chihuahuan Desert. The townies are adamant to do anything to keep their secrets hidden, threatening Koenig who is digging through things that shouldn’t be exposed! Luckily, Koenig has a special condition to not get scared easily. ( let’s make a correction: he never scares at all)
The heart pounding, brutal action scenes, fast pacing writing style, unexpected twists make you scream WTH! As you read more chapters, you realize things are getting even more heated. It’s amazing wild ride you never want to skip!
Overall: I need more Ben Koenig books ASAP! It’s wonderful to meet with this unforgettable character!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Flatiron Books for sharing this wonderful digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
As a devoted fan of Washington Poe& Tilly Bradshaw, I was so excited to get introduced with his brand new, badass, new hero Ben Koenig!
Koenig is eccentric, enigmatic, complex, extra layered character with full of surprises, reminding us Jack Reacher meets Jason Bourne kind of tight lipped, damaged loner who likes to do things in his own way. You have to peel his layers to learn more about his past, his secrets which is exciting and intriguing exploration.
Once upon a time he was the head officer of U. S. Marshal’s elite Special Operations Group. He resigned to lay low for his own personal reasons. But when he sees his face on TV, mentioning as the most wanted, he realizes something is terribly wrong!
His path crosses with his former boss who requests his corporation for a very special job that can be only done with his superior skills. Koenig has no intention to accept the job but he finds himself drawn into the missing woman’s case which leads him to a small town in the burning heat of the Chihuahuan Desert. The townies are adamant to do anything to keep their secrets hidden, threatening Koenig who is digging through things that shouldn’t be exposed! Luckily, Koenig has a special condition to not get scared easily. ( let’s make a correction: he never scares at all)
The heart pounding, brutal action scenes, fast pacing writing style, unexpected twists make you scream WTH! As you read more chapters, you realize things are getting even more heated. It’s amazing wild ride you never want to skip!
Overall: I need more Ben Koenig books ASAP! It’s wonderful to meet with this unforgettable character!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Flatiron Books for sharing this wonderful digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.
December 30, 2024
★★★★¾ (4.75/5) — This was such a fun, exciting & well layered novel that I think the genre has a new top-dog in Ben Koenig.
M.W. Craven delivers a tour de force with Fearless, a standalone thriller that effortlessly cements his place among the greats of the crime genre. Known for his sharp prose and brilliant characters, Craven crafts a story that is as gritty as it is addictive, blending unrelenting tension with perfectly timed dry humor in a way few authors can match.
At the heart of the novel is Ben Koenig, a former US Marshal turned ghost, whose reputation precedes him as a relentless problem solver—if you can find him, that is. Koenig is a fascinating paradox: a man capable of cold, calculated violence, yet deeply principled and fiercely loyal to those he trusts. Beneath his hardened exterior lies a sharp mind, a weary soul, and a past that propels him forward even as it haunts him. It’s not just his physical prowess or strategic genius that make him compelling—it’s his humanity, his quiet moments of introspection, and the unspoken pain that fuels his relentless drive.
The plot moves like a runaway train, with breakneck pacing that had me tearing through chapters late into the night. Craven is a master of tension, seamlessly building suspense in every scene, whether it’s a heart-stopping showdown or a seemingly casual conversation with deadly undertones. The stakes are sky-high, and just when you think you have it all figured out, Craven pulls the rug out from under you with a twist that’s as shocking as it is satisfying.
What makes Fearless truly shine, though, is the razor-sharp humor woven into its gritty narrative. Koenig’s dry wit and deadpan observations provide a welcome counterbalance to the intense action, resulting in moments that made me laugh out loud even as my pulse raced. The humor never undercuts the stakes—it enhances them, offering a glimpse into Koenig’s psyche and the way he copes with the chaos around him.
If there’s one small critique, it’s that a couple of the supporting characters don’t quite match Koenig’s depth. Still, this is a minor flaw in an otherwise stellar novel.
Fearless is a masterclass in storytelling—a visceral, thrilling, and darkly funny ride that crime fiction fans won’t want to miss. M.W. Craven has outdone himself. Highly, highly recommended!
📕Passages📖
“Koenig didn’t chase trouble. But when it found him, it never walked away in one piece.”
“Some lines you cross to protect yourself. Others, you cross because it’s the only way to protect what matters.”
“Underneath all the scars and calluses was a man who never stopped counting the lives he couldn’t save.”
M.W. Craven delivers a tour de force with Fearless, a standalone thriller that effortlessly cements his place among the greats of the crime genre. Known for his sharp prose and brilliant characters, Craven crafts a story that is as gritty as it is addictive, blending unrelenting tension with perfectly timed dry humor in a way few authors can match.
At the heart of the novel is Ben Koenig, a former US Marshal turned ghost, whose reputation precedes him as a relentless problem solver—if you can find him, that is. Koenig is a fascinating paradox: a man capable of cold, calculated violence, yet deeply principled and fiercely loyal to those he trusts. Beneath his hardened exterior lies a sharp mind, a weary soul, and a past that propels him forward even as it haunts him. It’s not just his physical prowess or strategic genius that make him compelling—it’s his humanity, his quiet moments of introspection, and the unspoken pain that fuels his relentless drive.
The plot moves like a runaway train, with breakneck pacing that had me tearing through chapters late into the night. Craven is a master of tension, seamlessly building suspense in every scene, whether it’s a heart-stopping showdown or a seemingly casual conversation with deadly undertones. The stakes are sky-high, and just when you think you have it all figured out, Craven pulls the rug out from under you with a twist that’s as shocking as it is satisfying.
What makes Fearless truly shine, though, is the razor-sharp humor woven into its gritty narrative. Koenig’s dry wit and deadpan observations provide a welcome counterbalance to the intense action, resulting in moments that made me laugh out loud even as my pulse raced. The humor never undercuts the stakes—it enhances them, offering a glimpse into Koenig’s psyche and the way he copes with the chaos around him.
If there’s one small critique, it’s that a couple of the supporting characters don’t quite match Koenig’s depth. Still, this is a minor flaw in an otherwise stellar novel.
Fearless is a masterclass in storytelling—a visceral, thrilling, and darkly funny ride that crime fiction fans won’t want to miss. M.W. Craven has outdone himself. Highly, highly recommended!
📕Passages📖
“Koenig didn’t chase trouble. But when it found him, it never walked away in one piece.”
“Some lines you cross to protect yourself. Others, you cross because it’s the only way to protect what matters.”
“Underneath all the scars and calluses was a man who never stopped counting the lives he couldn’t save.”
July 26, 2023
“ Fearless” is a departure from the detective genre that MW Craven has done so well with Bradshaw and Poe. This latest novel is the epitome of the action genre in which the hero is capable of almost any extraordinary feat except leaping tall buildings in a single bound.
The protagonist, Ben Koenig,is an interesting iteration of this hero type. He has a rare affliction which renders him incapable of feeling fear.Formerly a leading member of the elite, paramilitary U.S. Marshall’s Special Operations Group, he has dropped out of sight for the past six years after a particularly dangerous mission had unexpected consequences. Yet now, he is being forced out of obscurity to undertake a search for the missing daughter of his former boss.
The quest has all the pyrotechnics, weaponry, violence and twists that one might expect when immersed in an action thriller.Also present are the offbeat humor, serpentine plotting and cerebral planning that are omnipresent elements in a Craven novel. This genre is far from my favorite. However, the novel is very well written and eminently readable. Nevertheless, I long for the return of Bradshaw and Poe…or even Avison Fluke.
The protagonist, Ben Koenig,is an interesting iteration of this hero type. He has a rare affliction which renders him incapable of feeling fear.Formerly a leading member of the elite, paramilitary U.S. Marshall’s Special Operations Group, he has dropped out of sight for the past six years after a particularly dangerous mission had unexpected consequences. Yet now, he is being forced out of obscurity to undertake a search for the missing daughter of his former boss.
The quest has all the pyrotechnics, weaponry, violence and twists that one might expect when immersed in an action thriller.Also present are the offbeat humor, serpentine plotting and cerebral planning that are omnipresent elements in a Craven novel. This genre is far from my favorite. However, the novel is very well written and eminently readable. Nevertheless, I long for the return of Bradshaw and Poe…or even Avison Fluke.
December 28, 2023
For the first two thirds I found this an exciting thriller though far fetched. However, it went on too long, it was all pretty much the same thing with Ben Koenig using his wits, violence and every conceivable weapon to take on the bad guys and win. Natch. Nothing he’s written compares to Washington Poe and Tilly Bradshaw imo.
November 14, 2023
Right from the off in this first of a new series by M.W. Craven, Fearless is the epitome of full-paced action all the way. Like most, I’m a big fan of the Washington Poe and Tilly Bradshaw police procedural series where the rules of engagement are strictly enforced. This contrasts starkly because the rules are ignored and new ones are made up on the go. This, quite simply, is a wild ride.
Ben Koenig is a special man, he has skills and talents that are rare. He was once a US Marshal and he excelled at the work he did with them. But when a splinter of a bullet was lodged in his brain, the resulting operation to remove it revealed that he was suffering from a condition known as Urbach-Wiethe. The result from this condition is that he has become immune to fear, he doesn’t feel it any more.
For some, the inability to feel fear is a liability, but for Ben he has turned it into an asset and he has become a particularly efficient agent.
But for years now, Ben has been in hiding after walking away from his job. His boss has come looking for him, making contact in a particularly ingenious way. His daughter has gone missing, having disappeared at least 2 months ago. He wants Ben to find her or, at least, her body, and has been green lighted to go after the people involved in her disappearance.
In the early stages of his investigation, there’s no doubt Ben’s making progress. This is confirmed when the perspective shifts to a group of men who are clearly discussing his efforts and it’s made plainly clear that there’s going to be some pushback that’s likely going to become violent. Even early on you get the impression that this is exactly the reaction that Ben Koenig hopes for.
Now, as for Ben Koenig himself. What a fascinating character he turns out to be. The man is suffering from a condition called Urbach-Wiethe disease and, for him, this manifests itself as an absence of fear. Clearly, this has prompted the book’s title, but it also results in some pretty amusing scenes when Ben doesn’t quite react the way a bad guy expects when confronted with a dangerous or life threatening situation.
The hunt takes Ben into the Chihuahuan Desert to a solar power plant which represents jobs and prosperity for the local inhabitants, but also, a sense that something’s not quite right with the set up. It doesn’t take long for things to kick off and when the guy kicking things off isn’t afraid of anything, well, anything can happen.
The writing is smooth and entertaining with a sly turn of phrase that had the effect of being both engaging and horribly confronting all at the same time. This is particularly the case when the action really starts and the violence is being described in an almost off-hand manner. And that’s the other thing to note, there are some extremely violent scenes in Fearless, some of it described graphically.
I have an alley and this is right up it.
Ben Koenig is a special man, he has skills and talents that are rare. He was once a US Marshal and he excelled at the work he did with them. But when a splinter of a bullet was lodged in his brain, the resulting operation to remove it revealed that he was suffering from a condition known as Urbach-Wiethe. The result from this condition is that he has become immune to fear, he doesn’t feel it any more.
For some, the inability to feel fear is a liability, but for Ben he has turned it into an asset and he has become a particularly efficient agent.
But for years now, Ben has been in hiding after walking away from his job. His boss has come looking for him, making contact in a particularly ingenious way. His daughter has gone missing, having disappeared at least 2 months ago. He wants Ben to find her or, at least, her body, and has been green lighted to go after the people involved in her disappearance.
In the early stages of his investigation, there’s no doubt Ben’s making progress. This is confirmed when the perspective shifts to a group of men who are clearly discussing his efforts and it’s made plainly clear that there’s going to be some pushback that’s likely going to become violent. Even early on you get the impression that this is exactly the reaction that Ben Koenig hopes for.
Now, as for Ben Koenig himself. What a fascinating character he turns out to be. The man is suffering from a condition called Urbach-Wiethe disease and, for him, this manifests itself as an absence of fear. Clearly, this has prompted the book’s title, but it also results in some pretty amusing scenes when Ben doesn’t quite react the way a bad guy expects when confronted with a dangerous or life threatening situation.
The hunt takes Ben into the Chihuahuan Desert to a solar power plant which represents jobs and prosperity for the local inhabitants, but also, a sense that something’s not quite right with the set up. It doesn’t take long for things to kick off and when the guy kicking things off isn’t afraid of anything, well, anything can happen.
The writing is smooth and entertaining with a sly turn of phrase that had the effect of being both engaging and horribly confronting all at the same time. This is particularly the case when the action really starts and the violence is being described in an almost off-hand manner. And that’s the other thing to note, there are some extremely violent scenes in Fearless, some of it described graphically.
I have an alley and this is right up it.
June 29, 2023
Brilliant, brilliant audiobook!
I am so looking forward to this series! We are in for a treat!
I love Craven's Washington Poe series. They are some of my favourite characters. So I was intrigued by the premise of Fearless, as it seems to be tailored to appeal to US readers. Fascinating to think of a plot then choose which character/country to use.
US or UK, it didn't matter. Craven has written another fast paced, gripping action thriller that has whetted my appetite for further books.
Craven's sense of humour is never far away, and my favourite line is of course spaniel related: "I love spaniels; they're like the clowns of the dog world'. LOL. So true.
Ben Koenig is fascinating as a protagonist and I cannot wait to see how his character develops.
The narrator was absolutely amazing. I hope he continues to narrate the following books in the series.
I am so looking forward to this series! We are in for a treat!
I love Craven's Washington Poe series. They are some of my favourite characters. So I was intrigued by the premise of Fearless, as it seems to be tailored to appeal to US readers. Fascinating to think of a plot then choose which character/country to use.
US or UK, it didn't matter. Craven has written another fast paced, gripping action thriller that has whetted my appetite for further books.
Craven's sense of humour is never far away, and my favourite line is of course spaniel related: "I love spaniels; they're like the clowns of the dog world'. LOL. So true.
Ben Koenig is fascinating as a protagonist and I cannot wait to see how his character develops.
The narrator was absolutely amazing. I hope he continues to narrate the following books in the series.
August 24, 2024
My Rating: 4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for entertainment factor and the writing… I love this author!!!
GoodReads Synopsis
Ben Koenig is nobody’s hero… because he doesn’t exist. Six years back Ben headed up the US Marshal’s Special Ops Group. They were the unit who hunted the bad guys. The really bad guys. They did this so no one else had to. And then one day Ben sold his house, liquidated his assets and disappeared off the face of the earth. He told no one why he left no forwarding address.
For six years he became a grey man. Someone you didn’t remember. He drifted from town to town, state to state, never visiting the same place twice. He was untraceable - officially, he no longer existed. But now his face is plastered across every television screen in the country. Someone from Ben’s past has gone to extraordinary lengths to find him. They have a job for him, a revenge mission, one Ben won’t be able to refuse. Because in the hellish heat of the Chihauhuan desert lies a town called Gauntlet. Some people in Guantlet have a secret and they’ll do anything to protect it.
An they know Ben is coming. They’ve killed before and they will kill again. It’s easy to dismiss Ben Koenig as just another drifter, someone you don’t need to concern yourself with. But that would be a mistake. Because Ben has a condition, a unique disorder that means he’s incapable of experiencing fear. And that makes Ben Koenig a different kind of animal…
Ok, up front, this is not going to be everyone’s cup of tea. I wasn’t entirely sure it would be mine, but I love this author and I love the Washington Poe series so I said to hell with it I am reading it no matter what. Also after that last book… anything had to be better.
This is an ACTION book… it is also by the authors own admission a personal project. Something he didn’t expect to see the light of day. He was working on something wildly different and over the top to help pass time and get away from his usual books and the landscape of Britain. This one is set in America. There are many many references to all types of Army, Special Forces and types of fighting… so Craven has done his research. HOWEVER… having said that this is a book about a dude, that feels no fear, who fights to the death and basically doesn’t give a rats ass about going in and being a hardass… that is just not going to be for everyone.
There is a Russian Mob, there is literally all types of guns, ammo and explosives, there is far fetched shit going on all over the place… BUT if you know that going in… and you love this author and you don’t mind the OTT then dive in. It was a wild, fun and comical ride.
Craven’s usual humour shines though in this one and I really appreciated it. It never ever took itself too seriously and that is what made it less John Wick and more Die Hard (which by the way is my favourite Christmas movie of all time… and if you want to fight me about it then go for it I will never waiver 🤣). So I loved it… it wasn’t five star love but it was great… it was entertaining and funny.
Ben is a fun character, he never takes himself all that serious, his tasks and mission sure… but he’s not infallible and while he doesn’t feel fear (which if that is a real condition I must say sounds terrifying… also well researched by the author too) he does feel empathy, concern, love and friendship so he’s not a sociopath.
Like I said this book has humour … check it out…
It was past eight when I woke, the sun cutting through the gap in the curtains like a laser. J.T. Had already left for the barbershop. He’d left a piece of paper on the kitchen table, a list of stores where I could get what I needed. I fixed some eggs, then headed out. I figured the stores would be open now.
At Karsten’s Sporting Guns I got five military shemaghs, the heavyweight square scarves used in the Middle East to protect the face from sunburn and sand.
At the general store I got eight cans of Wolf Brand Chili. At Mike and Sons I got twenty-five feet of nylon Paramore.
And outside Lynne’s Bakery I got zapped in the neck with a Vipertek VTS-989 stun gun.
A mixed bag of a morning then.
I loved that… it made me laugh out loud… but I will repeat… this book is wayyyy over the top… the fight scenes unrealistic and the scenarios Ben finds himself in unbelievable… but this book is all about that and it never ever tries to hide it.
I am not going to go into anymore details because you are either going to like this or not… so I would recommend this to die hard fans of M.W Craven or fans of Die Hard hahaha… if you are looking for logic and believability please look elsewhere this is for pure entertainment…
I am looking forward to the next book very much!!!
GoodReads Synopsis
Ben Koenig is nobody’s hero… because he doesn’t exist. Six years back Ben headed up the US Marshal’s Special Ops Group. They were the unit who hunted the bad guys. The really bad guys. They did this so no one else had to. And then one day Ben sold his house, liquidated his assets and disappeared off the face of the earth. He told no one why he left no forwarding address.
For six years he became a grey man. Someone you didn’t remember. He drifted from town to town, state to state, never visiting the same place twice. He was untraceable - officially, he no longer existed. But now his face is plastered across every television screen in the country. Someone from Ben’s past has gone to extraordinary lengths to find him. They have a job for him, a revenge mission, one Ben won’t be able to refuse. Because in the hellish heat of the Chihauhuan desert lies a town called Gauntlet. Some people in Guantlet have a secret and they’ll do anything to protect it.
An they know Ben is coming. They’ve killed before and they will kill again. It’s easy to dismiss Ben Koenig as just another drifter, someone you don’t need to concern yourself with. But that would be a mistake. Because Ben has a condition, a unique disorder that means he’s incapable of experiencing fear. And that makes Ben Koenig a different kind of animal…
Ok, up front, this is not going to be everyone’s cup of tea. I wasn’t entirely sure it would be mine, but I love this author and I love the Washington Poe series so I said to hell with it I am reading it no matter what. Also after that last book… anything had to be better.
This is an ACTION book… it is also by the authors own admission a personal project. Something he didn’t expect to see the light of day. He was working on something wildly different and over the top to help pass time and get away from his usual books and the landscape of Britain. This one is set in America. There are many many references to all types of Army, Special Forces and types of fighting… so Craven has done his research. HOWEVER… having said that this is a book about a dude, that feels no fear, who fights to the death and basically doesn’t give a rats ass about going in and being a hardass… that is just not going to be for everyone.
There is a Russian Mob, there is literally all types of guns, ammo and explosives, there is far fetched shit going on all over the place… BUT if you know that going in… and you love this author and you don’t mind the OTT then dive in. It was a wild, fun and comical ride.
Craven’s usual humour shines though in this one and I really appreciated it. It never ever took itself too seriously and that is what made it less John Wick and more Die Hard (which by the way is my favourite Christmas movie of all time… and if you want to fight me about it then go for it I will never waiver 🤣). So I loved it… it wasn’t five star love but it was great… it was entertaining and funny.
Ben is a fun character, he never takes himself all that serious, his tasks and mission sure… but he’s not infallible and while he doesn’t feel fear (which if that is a real condition I must say sounds terrifying… also well researched by the author too) he does feel empathy, concern, love and friendship so he’s not a sociopath.
Like I said this book has humour … check it out…
It was past eight when I woke, the sun cutting through the gap in the curtains like a laser. J.T. Had already left for the barbershop. He’d left a piece of paper on the kitchen table, a list of stores where I could get what I needed. I fixed some eggs, then headed out. I figured the stores would be open now.
At Karsten’s Sporting Guns I got five military shemaghs, the heavyweight square scarves used in the Middle East to protect the face from sunburn and sand.
At the general store I got eight cans of Wolf Brand Chili. At Mike and Sons I got twenty-five feet of nylon Paramore.
And outside Lynne’s Bakery I got zapped in the neck with a Vipertek VTS-989 stun gun.
A mixed bag of a morning then.
I loved that… it made me laugh out loud… but I will repeat… this book is wayyyy over the top… the fight scenes unrealistic and the scenarios Ben finds himself in unbelievable… but this book is all about that and it never ever tries to hide it.
I am not going to go into anymore details because you are either going to like this or not… so I would recommend this to die hard fans of M.W Craven or fans of Die Hard hahaha… if you are looking for logic and believability please look elsewhere this is for pure entertainment…
I am looking forward to the next book very much!!!
June 11, 2023
From Vanished to Vigilante: The emergence of the man without fear, Ben Koenig……
Book Information
“Fearless” is written by the renowned English crime writer M.W. Craven. Spanning 416 pages, the book is scheduled to be published on July 11, 2023. The audiobook version, narrated by William Hope, has a runtime of 11 hours and 10 minutes. Craven is well-known for his notable contributions to the crime fiction genre, including the popular Washington Poe series and the DI Avison Fluke series. In 2019, his novel The Puppet Show received the esteemed Crime Writers' Association Gold Dagger Award. Thanks to Flatiron Books and Macmillan Audio for providing me with an Advance Readers Copy of this book for review.
Summary
Ben Koenig, the enigmatic former leader of the US Marshal's Special Operations Group, vanished without a trace six years ago. Untraceable and forgotten, he became a ghostly figure, drifting from place to place, leaving no footprint behind. But now, the man who no longer exists is thrust into the spotlight as someone from his past launches a relentless pursuit to find him.
In a high-stakes game of revenge, Ben is coerced into a mission he cannot refuse. A town called Gauntlet, nestled in the scorching Chihuahuan desert, holds a dangerous secret, and its inhabitants will stop at nothing to protect it. With his unique condition that renders him immune to fear, Ben is a force to be reckoned with.
As his face graces every television screen in the nation, it's tempting to dismiss Ben as just another drifter. However, underestimating him would be a grave mistake. Gauntlet's hidden powerbrokers have shed blood before and will do so again, but little do they know that Ben Koenig is about to become their worst nightmare.
My Thoughts
A gripping debut in an electrifying new series, Fearless is an adrenaline-fueled roller coaster you won't want to get off. If you're a fan of Jack Reacher, Jason Bourne, or Jack Bauer, you will undoubtedly love Ben Koenig. As the first book in this series, Fearless introduces us to a well-written story with a great set of characters, full of surprises and twists.
Told in the first person, the story unfolds through Koenig's perspective, allowing readers to unravel the plot and think through the mysteries alongside him. Koenig has a unique personality. He is cocky but also has a head full of random thoughts and facts. This personalizes him and adds a touch of quirkiness, even amidst the action-packed moments, often leading to a laugh or two. He also has a rare disorder that renders him incapable of feeling fear. Despite his disorder, Koenig is relatable due to the little details that Craven includes, such as his love for chocolate milkshakes and unwavering devotion to family and friends.
Fearless strikes a good balance with a compelling, intriguing storyline, thrill-ride action, and necessary violence (at least for this kind of story). The book maintains a good pace, with an involved plot and gripping action scenes that keep you on the edge of your seat. Craven's attention to detail and impressive research contribute to the believability and realism of the story. That is not to say that there are parts where believably and probability aren’t stretched—even to their limit—but that’s what makes a fictional thriller. Extraordinary events require extraordinary circumstances.
The standout aspect of Fearless for me is the development and depiction of Ben Koenig, which sets the stage for exciting follow-up novels in this series. The supporting characters also play significant roles and add depth to the story. As a reader, there is a lot to like here and much to look forward to in the future installments of this series, given the strong foundation laid by this book.
In the audiobook rendition of Fearless, narrated by William Hope, his performance is exceptional. Striking a delicate balance, Hope skillfully avoids both underperforming and overacting, a challenge often encountered in this genre. With finesse, he captures the full range of emotions and experiences of the characters, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the novel.
Recommendation
“Fearless” is a thrilling ride filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists—a must-read for fans of Jack Reacher, Jason Bourne, or Jack Bauer. With its engaging plot, excellent character development, and impressive attention to detail, I highly recommend it.
Rating
4 Chocolate Milkshake Stars
Book Information
“Fearless” is written by the renowned English crime writer M.W. Craven. Spanning 416 pages, the book is scheduled to be published on July 11, 2023. The audiobook version, narrated by William Hope, has a runtime of 11 hours and 10 minutes. Craven is well-known for his notable contributions to the crime fiction genre, including the popular Washington Poe series and the DI Avison Fluke series. In 2019, his novel The Puppet Show received the esteemed Crime Writers' Association Gold Dagger Award. Thanks to Flatiron Books and Macmillan Audio for providing me with an Advance Readers Copy of this book for review.
Summary
Ben Koenig, the enigmatic former leader of the US Marshal's Special Operations Group, vanished without a trace six years ago. Untraceable and forgotten, he became a ghostly figure, drifting from place to place, leaving no footprint behind. But now, the man who no longer exists is thrust into the spotlight as someone from his past launches a relentless pursuit to find him.
In a high-stakes game of revenge, Ben is coerced into a mission he cannot refuse. A town called Gauntlet, nestled in the scorching Chihuahuan desert, holds a dangerous secret, and its inhabitants will stop at nothing to protect it. With his unique condition that renders him immune to fear, Ben is a force to be reckoned with.
As his face graces every television screen in the nation, it's tempting to dismiss Ben as just another drifter. However, underestimating him would be a grave mistake. Gauntlet's hidden powerbrokers have shed blood before and will do so again, but little do they know that Ben Koenig is about to become their worst nightmare.
My Thoughts
A gripping debut in an electrifying new series, Fearless is an adrenaline-fueled roller coaster you won't want to get off. If you're a fan of Jack Reacher, Jason Bourne, or Jack Bauer, you will undoubtedly love Ben Koenig. As the first book in this series, Fearless introduces us to a well-written story with a great set of characters, full of surprises and twists.
Told in the first person, the story unfolds through Koenig's perspective, allowing readers to unravel the plot and think through the mysteries alongside him. Koenig has a unique personality. He is cocky but also has a head full of random thoughts and facts. This personalizes him and adds a touch of quirkiness, even amidst the action-packed moments, often leading to a laugh or two. He also has a rare disorder that renders him incapable of feeling fear. Despite his disorder, Koenig is relatable due to the little details that Craven includes, such as his love for chocolate milkshakes and unwavering devotion to family and friends.
Fearless strikes a good balance with a compelling, intriguing storyline, thrill-ride action, and necessary violence (at least for this kind of story). The book maintains a good pace, with an involved plot and gripping action scenes that keep you on the edge of your seat. Craven's attention to detail and impressive research contribute to the believability and realism of the story. That is not to say that there are parts where believably and probability aren’t stretched—even to their limit—but that’s what makes a fictional thriller. Extraordinary events require extraordinary circumstances.
The standout aspect of Fearless for me is the development and depiction of Ben Koenig, which sets the stage for exciting follow-up novels in this series. The supporting characters also play significant roles and add depth to the story. As a reader, there is a lot to like here and much to look forward to in the future installments of this series, given the strong foundation laid by this book.
In the audiobook rendition of Fearless, narrated by William Hope, his performance is exceptional. Striking a delicate balance, Hope skillfully avoids both underperforming and overacting, a challenge often encountered in this genre. With finesse, he captures the full range of emotions and experiences of the characters, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the novel.
Recommendation
“Fearless” is a thrilling ride filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists—a must-read for fans of Jack Reacher, Jason Bourne, or Jack Bauer. With its engaging plot, excellent character development, and impressive attention to detail, I highly recommend it.
Rating
4 Chocolate Milkshake Stars
August 1, 2023
A long-time fan of M.W. Craven, I was eager to get my hands on this new series by the author. Set in the US with American characters, Craven’s writing feels Reacher-esque, which the protagonist mentions in the early narrative. I did enjoy it, but miss the Poe series and its unique flavoring. Still, an interesting new spin for an established writer!
Ben Koenig served as a highly effective leader within the US Marshal’s Special Operations Group. He hunted the worst of the worst and found himself quite the effective operative.However, six years ago, he decided to pack it all in and disappear off the grid. Now, he’s a nobody and exists only to himself.
He’s spent the last six years drifting from place to place, making loose connections but never leaving any lasting memory about himself.. People forget him as soon as they meet him and he prefers it that way. All this changes when Ben’s face appears on every news station and he becomes the country’s most sought after man, for reasons he is not quite sure how to interpret. It would seem someone wants his skills for a mission and no one else will do.
In a rural Texas town, people have been doing things they do not want known. With Ben on the way, they are preparing for what could be the right of their lives. Ben Koenig is prepared for whatever they toss at him, having nothing to lose and no one to miss him. Add to that, he is unable to experience fear... so this could get nasty quickly. A chilling story that Craven develops effortlessly!
As I said before, I have long enjoyed the work of M.W. Craven and have followed the Washington Poe series closely. With this new series developing, I was interested to see where things might go. The story is grounded and makes the series one I would like to follow. It is, as I said earlier, very much like the new Jack Reacher, which I am sure has some rationale, as said nomad is mentioned in the early chapters. The characters are quite relatable and violent, adding depth to the story at each turn. Plot lines develop well and provide something exciting for all to enjoy. I am interested to see where Ben Koenig will go in the stories and how Craven will shape it. For now, I will wait, wondering to see what’s what!
Kudos, Mr. Craven, for expanding your base once more.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Ben Koenig served as a highly effective leader within the US Marshal’s Special Operations Group. He hunted the worst of the worst and found himself quite the effective operative.However, six years ago, he decided to pack it all in and disappear off the grid. Now, he’s a nobody and exists only to himself.
He’s spent the last six years drifting from place to place, making loose connections but never leaving any lasting memory about himself.. People forget him as soon as they meet him and he prefers it that way. All this changes when Ben’s face appears on every news station and he becomes the country’s most sought after man, for reasons he is not quite sure how to interpret. It would seem someone wants his skills for a mission and no one else will do.
In a rural Texas town, people have been doing things they do not want known. With Ben on the way, they are preparing for what could be the right of their lives. Ben Koenig is prepared for whatever they toss at him, having nothing to lose and no one to miss him. Add to that, he is unable to experience fear... so this could get nasty quickly. A chilling story that Craven develops effortlessly!
As I said before, I have long enjoyed the work of M.W. Craven and have followed the Washington Poe series closely. With this new series developing, I was interested to see where things might go. The story is grounded and makes the series one I would like to follow. It is, as I said earlier, very much like the new Jack Reacher, which I am sure has some rationale, as said nomad is mentioned in the early chapters. The characters are quite relatable and violent, adding depth to the story at each turn. Plot lines develop well and provide something exciting for all to enjoy. I am interested to see where Ben Koenig will go in the stories and how Craven will shape it. For now, I will wait, wondering to see what’s what!
Kudos, Mr. Craven, for expanding your base once more.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
July 7, 2023
Well, let me explain it this way:
Have you ever come across the American singers Taylor Swift and Morgan Wallen? Well, they are international superstars, almost unparalleled. They started as country singers and were / are hugely successful in that craft. But then they implemented a very effective marketing ploy. They sang outside of their genre, they became mainstream. The country followers didn't care for it too much, but they created a new audience and became hugely successful in that market as well. The point is, you don't like all of their songs, just the genre that interests you most.
This is what's happened here.
I read a lot, I mean a real lot. And in the last two years, Craven was my standout find. For those that haven't read them, try the Washington Poe and Avison Fluke series. They are fantastic - even the average books are at least 3 stars!
But, I'm thinking Craven wanted to develop his American following further, hence the American character and this action packed high octane plot. I've no doubt that this book will be a success. It wouldn't surprise me if it sold more copies than every one of his published books to date (combined).
But this one wasn't really for me. I like the British authors because their novels are relatable. You know, average humble characters, almost always witty and the stories are all underpinned by very solid plots - you have to think a little. But they generally don't have the main character who is well, kind of like the American Koenig in this offering....the biggest, the best, the most skilful, kills everything in front of them and saves the world in the last scene (ie. this book). I felt as if I was reading Rambo, or Reacher but on steroids. The only component this one missed was the most beautiful woman in the world falling for him :)
Kudos to the author though as I suspect this book will set him up internationally. I see the next release for Craven is Koenig #2 and I wish him all the best. For me though, I'll be awaiting Washington Poe and Tilly Bradshaw.
Have you ever come across the American singers Taylor Swift and Morgan Wallen? Well, they are international superstars, almost unparalleled. They started as country singers and were / are hugely successful in that craft. But then they implemented a very effective marketing ploy. They sang outside of their genre, they became mainstream. The country followers didn't care for it too much, but they created a new audience and became hugely successful in that market as well. The point is, you don't like all of their songs, just the genre that interests you most.
This is what's happened here.
I read a lot, I mean a real lot. And in the last two years, Craven was my standout find. For those that haven't read them, try the Washington Poe and Avison Fluke series. They are fantastic - even the average books are at least 3 stars!
But, I'm thinking Craven wanted to develop his American following further, hence the American character and this action packed high octane plot. I've no doubt that this book will be a success. It wouldn't surprise me if it sold more copies than every one of his published books to date (combined).
But this one wasn't really for me. I like the British authors because their novels are relatable. You know, average humble characters, almost always witty and the stories are all underpinned by very solid plots - you have to think a little. But they generally don't have the main character who is well, kind of like the American Koenig in this offering....the biggest, the best, the most skilful, kills everything in front of them and saves the world in the last scene (ie. this book). I felt as if I was reading Rambo, or Reacher but on steroids. The only component this one missed was the most beautiful woman in the world falling for him :)
Kudos to the author though as I suspect this book will set him up internationally. I see the next release for Craven is Koenig #2 and I wish him all the best. For me though, I'll be awaiting Washington Poe and Tilly Bradshaw.
January 28, 2025
“Fearless”, by M. W. Craven
4 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is an action packed novel.
Think of a Stalone/Schwarzenegger combo. There is not a moment of boredom.
It’s definitely a page turner.
And it is also brutal!
The violence was crazy!
The main character is not just fearless but also remorseless.
And some ideas of cruelty as an entertaining game were unbelievably sickening. Hopefully some were fruits from his imagination and no one will feel inspired to create such games.
The writing and storytelling were perfect and the author did not loose his humorous touch.
The story is told in first person and single perspective.
But this is no Poe and Tilly’s adventures.
It was different and because of the violence level it may not please everyone,
As for me,I thought it was quite enthralling and I found the main character very interesting and likeable.
But this is not a book that I loved or would recommend to my friends.
Regardless, I’m looking forward to reading the next installment.
e-book (Kobo): 353 pages, 109k words, 5 parts (127 chapters)
4 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is an action packed novel.
Think of a Stalone/Schwarzenegger combo. There is not a moment of boredom.
It’s definitely a page turner.
And it is also brutal!
The violence was crazy!
The main character is not just fearless but also remorseless.
And some ideas of cruelty as an entertaining game were unbelievably sickening. Hopefully some were fruits from his imagination and no one will feel inspired to create such games.
The writing and storytelling were perfect and the author did not loose his humorous touch.
The story is told in first person and single perspective.
But this is no Poe and Tilly’s adventures.
It was different and because of the violence level it may not please everyone,
As for me,I thought it was quite enthralling and I found the main character very interesting and likeable.
But this is not a book that I loved or would recommend to my friends.
Regardless, I’m looking forward to reading the next installment.
e-book (Kobo): 353 pages, 109k words, 5 parts (127 chapters)
ben-koeing-series
February 28, 2025⭐️ Synopsis:
Ben Koenig is a Federal Marshall who developed a condition that causes him to not be able to feel fear. Instead of him being put on desk duty his supervisor arranges for him to be given special training that makes him a lethal weapon. During an op (get this for a trigger warning - he is going after a crime ring that does dark web streaming of dogs fighting children) he inadvertently kills the son of a Russian mob boss. Yeah, I said the son of a Russian mob boss. So, of course the mob puts a 5 million dollar hit out on him. Koenig “pulls a Reacher” and cannot be found for six years. That is until his old supervisor finds Ben and asks him to do an off the books mission. Supervisor’s daughter has been kidnapped and Koenig is ordered to find her and kill everyone involved in her kidnapping.
⭐️ What I thought about this book:
I’m not really sure right now. I picked this book up because a GoodReads friend gave it a 5 star review and it looked like it could be fun. Well, it wasn’t really. How more horrific can you get than a crime ring throwing children in a ring for a fight to the death with a dog? I almost stopped there, and honestly I’m not sure why I didn’t. This read like a Reacher novel without any of the “charm” (that seems like the wrong word but I can’t seem to find a better one). Lots of people die. There is a great deal of detail on tactical military fighting and weapons. I think I am just the wrong audience for this book and probably should not have picked it up, therefore I am not going to rate it.
Ben Koenig is a Federal Marshall who developed a condition that causes him to not be able to feel fear. Instead of him being put on desk duty his supervisor arranges for him to be given special training that makes him a lethal weapon. During an op (get this for a trigger warning - he is going after a crime ring that does dark web streaming of dogs fighting children) he inadvertently kills the son of a Russian mob boss. Yeah, I said the son of a Russian mob boss. So, of course the mob puts a 5 million dollar hit out on him. Koenig “pulls a Reacher” and cannot be found for six years. That is until his old supervisor finds Ben and asks him to do an off the books mission. Supervisor’s daughter has been kidnapped and Koenig is ordered to find her and kill everyone involved in her kidnapping.
⭐️ What I thought about this book:
I’m not really sure right now. I picked this book up because a GoodReads friend gave it a 5 star review and it looked like it could be fun. Well, it wasn’t really. How more horrific can you get than a crime ring throwing children in a ring for a fight to the death with a dog? I almost stopped there, and honestly I’m not sure why I didn’t. This read like a Reacher novel without any of the “charm” (that seems like the wrong word but I can’t seem to find a better one). Lots of people die. There is a great deal of detail on tactical military fighting and weapons. I think I am just the wrong audience for this book and probably should not have picked it up, therefore I am not going to rate it.
July 1, 2023
All the reviews of this book seem to be ones that were given an ARC be that audio or digital, if like myself you bought the book and were thoroughly disappointed with a cliche ridden book that was laughable at best then read the reviews on Audible where at least they are honest, this is a poor book and has made reconsider purchasing books by this author in future
June 30, 2023
Ben Koenig is a brand new character created by M.V. Craven and Fearless is the first book about him. He is a former US Marshal who has been out of sight for six years. Suddenly he is on the most wanted list and trouble arrives. He gets roped into helping his old boss with a missing person and then all kinds of shit happens. This book is very well written and it's a great set of characters. I haven't read anything by this author before but I will for sure remedy that. Great action with lots of thrilling situation and some great humor as well. I can really recommend this book. Thanks to Flatiron books Macmillan and Edelweiss for giving me this advance copy.
July 16, 2023
Is that the same author who wrote the Washington Poe series? It could almost be a farce, but no: im disappointed
August 26, 2023
Fearless is the first book in a new action series set in the USA, by the author of the fantastic Washington Poe crime thriller series, about Ben Koenig, a former special forces operative forced to undertake a dangerous mission to find an old friend’s missing daughter. We listened to the audiobook over a couple of car journeys, and enjoyed it for the fast paced over the top heroics of the main character, with some reservations. It’s basically a Jack Reacher story, super-sized - more action, more brutal violence, more weapons, more emotionless analysis and explanation of Koenig’s every move: most of the chapters are told from his first person perspective (past tense, thankfully) with a few third person scenes centred on the main antagonist.
You can’t blame the author for wanting to reach a bigger audience, hence the shift to an American protagonist and setting, and picking a shift in genre to one that sells squillions, but making this so similar to Mr Child’s books seems a bit cynical (it’s clearly not an accident - Reacher is even mentioned at one point.) The plot is also like a more complicated version of them - drifter creates mayhem in a small town hiding a big secret, and almost single-handedly takes out an army of vicious killers. (That’s not a spoiler is it?) Koenig himself is also less appealing as a hero - his unusual brain injury, that prevents him feeling any fear, makes him a cold-blooded killer. Yes he has some sort of moral code, and he’s loyal to his friends, all two of them, but he shrugs off the death of innocents in a way that makes him hard to like. At least he doesn’t sleep with a woman young enough to be his daughter, and there’s some humour, albeit dark.
The audiobook narration was pretty good, I didn’t love the accent and I couldn’t speed it up beyond 1.1 as it became too hard to follow what he way saying, but once I got used to it it mostly fit the character - although the narrator sounded a lot older than the character is supposed to be. Unfortunately our file was corrupted so every time I paused it, it would jump to a different chapter, which got very annoying - I haven’t heard about this happening to anyone else though so maybe it was just our copy.
Overall, if you love the Reacher and Orphan X books, and are not fazed by graphic violence including references to fairly extreme torture and a very high body count - it was a bit too much for me - then you should enjoy this. I still prefer the Poe & Tilly books so hope this doesn’t signal the end of them, but I will continue this series as Craven is such a good storyteller.
You can’t blame the author for wanting to reach a bigger audience, hence the shift to an American protagonist and setting, and picking a shift in genre to one that sells squillions, but making this so similar to Mr Child’s books seems a bit cynical (it’s clearly not an accident - Reacher is even mentioned at one point.) The plot is also like a more complicated version of them - drifter creates mayhem in a small town hiding a big secret, and almost single-handedly takes out an army of vicious killers. (That’s not a spoiler is it?) Koenig himself is also less appealing as a hero - his unusual brain injury, that prevents him feeling any fear, makes him a cold-blooded killer. Yes he has some sort of moral code, and he’s loyal to his friends, all two of them, but he shrugs off the death of innocents in a way that makes him hard to like. At least he doesn’t sleep with a woman young enough to be his daughter, and there’s some humour, albeit dark.
The audiobook narration was pretty good, I didn’t love the accent and I couldn’t speed it up beyond 1.1 as it became too hard to follow what he way saying, but once I got used to it it mostly fit the character - although the narrator sounded a lot older than the character is supposed to be. Unfortunately our file was corrupted so every time I paused it, it would jump to a different chapter, which got very annoying - I haven’t heard about this happening to anyone else though so maybe it was just our copy.
Overall, if you love the Reacher and Orphan X books, and are not fazed by graphic violence including references to fairly extreme torture and a very high body count - it was a bit too much for me - then you should enjoy this. I still prefer the Poe & Tilly books so hope this doesn’t signal the end of them, but I will continue this series as Craven is such a good storyteller.
July 18, 2023
I am a big fan of the author’s Washington Poe and Tilly series. So, I was intrigued to get my hands on a copy of Fearless a new series from M.W. Craven. I was also a bit apprehensive to see if it was good as the authors previous work and I wasn’t disappointed.
Six years ago, Ben Koenig was a US marshal heading an elite group, hunting the lowest of the low until he disappeared and lived under the radar. Until one day, he is called back in from his old boss. Asking him to get back into the thick of it and find out and kill the persons who have abducted his daughter.
Ben has been highly trained and has been in these situations before. He had previously a head injury that has lost the sense of fear. So, he jumps at the chance to help. Ben is a likeable charismatic character and an expert in his field.
This is a fantastic start to a new series and more than I was expecting. It fully action packed and highly entertaining read and similarities to Jack Reacher. I loved it. If these characters were real people, I wonder what would they think of each other? I can’t wait to see how this series develops.
Six years ago, Ben Koenig was a US marshal heading an elite group, hunting the lowest of the low until he disappeared and lived under the radar. Until one day, he is called back in from his old boss. Asking him to get back into the thick of it and find out and kill the persons who have abducted his daughter.
Ben has been highly trained and has been in these situations before. He had previously a head injury that has lost the sense of fear. So, he jumps at the chance to help. Ben is a likeable charismatic character and an expert in his field.
This is a fantastic start to a new series and more than I was expecting. It fully action packed and highly entertaining read and similarities to Jack Reacher. I loved it. If these characters were real people, I wonder what would they think of each other? I can’t wait to see how this series develops.
July 7, 2023
Boom!! MW Craven has another hit series in his hands if Fearless is anything to go by. I am a massive fan of the Tilly and Poe team in his other series so it was a no brainer that I would want to read Fearless. What a book!! It is a seriously fast paced, action packed page turner. Ben Koenig is an action hero to be reckoned with, and I already cannot wait for the next book.
Ben Koeninig is Fearless. After a head injury years ago, he lost the ability it be scared. He will throw himself into dangerous territory without thinking. He has also been on the run for 6 years, but now his former boss needs his help to find his daughter. Oh and did I mention he is a US Marshall! Ben js given instructions to find Martha, no matter the cost, no matter what he has to do. And so begins a journey across country to find the girl. He comes up against many violent and dangerous men, all in a days work for Ben.
There is no chance to catch your breath before Ben is thrown into another dangerous situation. He is a dog with a bone, and won’t give up easily. I could not get enough of this book, it was unputdownable and completely addictive.
Just brilliant. Thank you Little Brown Book Group UK for my advanced copy to read. Easy 5 stars.
Ben Koeninig is Fearless. After a head injury years ago, he lost the ability it be scared. He will throw himself into dangerous territory without thinking. He has also been on the run for 6 years, but now his former boss needs his help to find his daughter. Oh and did I mention he is a US Marshall! Ben js given instructions to find Martha, no matter the cost, no matter what he has to do. And so begins a journey across country to find the girl. He comes up against many violent and dangerous men, all in a days work for Ben.
There is no chance to catch your breath before Ben is thrown into another dangerous situation. He is a dog with a bone, and won’t give up easily. I could not get enough of this book, it was unputdownable and completely addictive.
Just brilliant. Thank you Little Brown Book Group UK for my advanced copy to read. Easy 5 stars.
June 27, 2023
After reading the authors Poe and Tilly series I was more than curious to see how he would ‘do’ one of my fav genres, high action thrillers
Got to say it surpassed any expectation, it took me about 50 pages to get to know the character of Ben Keoning, who he was, what his past was and what he was embarking on but that was a reading pleasure not a chore and once that was all in place in my mind the book was dynamite
It is an all consuming fast paced full on read where anything can happen and it does, with the authors signature no holds barred storytelling continuing
And what I found so good alongside this storytelling was the factual information given throughout the book on such a varying amount of subjects; from Rattlesnakes to Solar Power from Texas Politics to Spitfire Cars it literally was fascinating to pick up so much info on things I never had a clue about, a real added bonus to this exciting book
I am sure comparisons will be made to many authors in the genre but I wont do that suffice to say this stands alone on it’s merits and I really hope there will be a Book 2, loved it
Got to say it surpassed any expectation, it took me about 50 pages to get to know the character of Ben Keoning, who he was, what his past was and what he was embarking on but that was a reading pleasure not a chore and once that was all in place in my mind the book was dynamite
It is an all consuming fast paced full on read where anything can happen and it does, with the authors signature no holds barred storytelling continuing
And what I found so good alongside this storytelling was the factual information given throughout the book on such a varying amount of subjects; from Rattlesnakes to Solar Power from Texas Politics to Spitfire Cars it literally was fascinating to pick up so much info on things I never had a clue about, a real added bonus to this exciting book
I am sure comparisons will be made to many authors in the genre but I wont do that suffice to say this stands alone on it’s merits and I really hope there will be a Book 2, loved it
February 7, 2025
I read this as I am having withdrawal symptoms from the authors Washington Poe series, but this is not a police crime investigation. Ben Koenig is an ex Marshall with a price on his head. For 6 years, he's been under the radar and on the run until he is placed on the most wanted list. He's arrested, but his old boss brings him in with the request that Ben finds his missing daughter. This is a gory "shoot em up" full of violence read. It's a Jack Reacher/ Bond type style, but he knows no fear, hence the books title, and making him take risks that others wouldn't even consider, hand to hand combat or cliff descending examples of his fearlessness. Great plotting with twists and a loveable main character you root for, Ben with his risk-taking. It's fast-paced, action-packed, tough, badass, dare devil, explosive, violent, brilliant, knock out thriller, and very different to the Washington Poe series I'm obsessed about. However, it's not a cosy read. It's uncomfortable, full of suspense, gory, and a page turner. But it's still a super read. The author is fast becoming my favourite.
July 24, 2023
The main central character in Craven’s books is usually a recluse that lives by his own rules, away from society. He break other entities and people’s rules constantly, he has a military training but distrust authority, likes the simple things. His best friends are few but loyal. He is the ultimate lone wolf. I am sure that if Poe meets Koenig, they will become friends. Koenig’s character was Poe with an edge….Mr. Craven has a type.
I think Craven really likes the American hero. Poe is the man, Edgar the dog, an ode to Edgar Allan Poe or a cigar is just a cigar? Poe’s first name is Washington and we know why, so he is half American and half British. In Koenig we have an American of German and English ancestry. Throughout Fearless Craven also makes reference to other rogue former intelligence actors created in the USA. I am sure that he will also like the John Wayne characters in John Ford’s movies not the one in Howard Hawks films (there is a huge difference), we have to ask him.
I rarely read action or adventure and after reading Fearless, my preference is still Poe. This book was written to perfection, everything that the main character did was explained but after the Rambo-Terminator ending it left me wanting more plot and less violence
I think Craven really likes the American hero. Poe is the man, Edgar the dog, an ode to Edgar Allan Poe or a cigar is just a cigar? Poe’s first name is Washington and we know why, so he is half American and half British. In Koenig we have an American of German and English ancestry. Throughout Fearless Craven also makes reference to other rogue former intelligence actors created in the USA. I am sure that he will also like the John Wayne characters in John Ford’s movies not the one in Howard Hawks films (there is a huge difference), we have to ask him.
I rarely read action or adventure and after reading Fearless, my preference is still Poe. This book was written to perfection, everything that the main character did was explained but after the Rambo-Terminator ending it left me wanting more plot and less violence
April 19, 2024
Γρήγορο και κινηματογραφικό, είναι γεμάτο ένταση και ανατροπές. Ο νέος ήρωας είναι ιδιαιτέρως κυνικός και πολύ εθιστικός.
Απολαυστικός MW Craven, για ακόμα μια φορά.
5/5 ⭐
Απολαυστικός MW Craven, για ακόμα μια φορά.
5/5 ⭐
January 12, 2025
3.5/5
A pure competence porn. Fans of violent and relentlessly paced thrillers (Jack Reacher, Bourne, etc.) will love it. It's far from perfect, but I had a good time listening to it.
A pure competence porn. Fans of violent and relentlessly paced thrillers (Jack Reacher, Bourne, etc.) will love it. It's far from perfect, but I had a good time listening to it.
March 1, 2023
If you have read other books by MW Craven; the Flynn & Poe books, this book a huge departure from what I could consider his canon.
Ben Koenig is an American, the story is set in America and Ben is a best a loose cannon.
Once upon time Ben was a US Marshal, who did US Marshal type duties. But a freak accident uncovered a medical problem which made him a high risk in team activities. After some specialized training he returned to service only to make a legal but deadly choice that got him on the radar of some bad people.
Forced to run he became a gray man; hiding in plain site as a drifter. And for six years he has been able to escape the price on his head and the US Government. That changes quickly when an old friend needs a big favor. Now Ben is still a lone wolf but he has a task and nothing is going to stop him.
I have never read Jack Reacher books, I have seen a movie and Ben is a bit like Reacher with a hint of James Bond; sans the casual misogyny and racism, and a bit like Riggs in Lethal Weapon - tv series or movie.
I loved this book but I love the action genre. In Craven's police procedurals his male characters are softened by the women in the book. In this book the women are as hard and dangerous as Koenig. There is a lot of explicit violence in this book. It is a compelling, intriguing action packed ride of story.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Flatiron books
Ben Koenig is an American, the story is set in America and Ben is a best a loose cannon.
Once upon time Ben was a US Marshal, who did US Marshal type duties. But a freak accident uncovered a medical problem which made him a high risk in team activities. After some specialized training he returned to service only to make a legal but deadly choice that got him on the radar of some bad people.
Forced to run he became a gray man; hiding in plain site as a drifter. And for six years he has been able to escape the price on his head and the US Government. That changes quickly when an old friend needs a big favor. Now Ben is still a lone wolf but he has a task and nothing is going to stop him.
I have never read Jack Reacher books, I have seen a movie and Ben is a bit like Reacher with a hint of James Bond; sans the casual misogyny and racism, and a bit like Riggs in Lethal Weapon - tv series or movie.
I loved this book but I love the action genre. In Craven's police procedurals his male characters are softened by the women in the book. In this book the women are as hard and dangerous as Koenig. There is a lot of explicit violence in this book. It is a compelling, intriguing action packed ride of story.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Flatiron books
August 2, 2023
Unoriginal and dull. Spoilers ahead . It seemed written by a teenage boy for a teenage boy . Only at the end in the acknowledgment you find it was something written in 2015 . Felt like a vanity self published book. However seeing how well Greg hurwitz does with his orphan x series I can see this being a money spinner . This author is way way better than this derivative nonsense
January 25, 2025
Ben Koenig is pulled in from the cold to find his old bosses kidnapped daughter. He leaves a pile of bodies on the way to finding her.
More Reacher than Poe but still worth the read.
More Reacher than Poe but still worth the read.
June 29, 2023
4.5
What a ride!
Ben Koenig is my kind of action hero. Fearless doesn't cover it. This book moves at pace & with short, sharp chapters & I found myself flying through the action.
This is a huge step away from Tilly & Poe, but M.W Craven maintains his immensely readable writing style & humour which, for me, are key to him being one of my favourite authors. The story is cleverly plotted & completely entertaining. I did miss the easy banter element that you get from Poe's team, but I'm hoping there might be a bit more of that to come as the series progresses & we get more relationship development from some of the fantastic secondary characters, who I hope crop up again. I've seen this mentioned alongside Jack Reacher & it is similar, but with a dry sense of humour thrown in too. Reading Fearless is like watching a slick action movie, so grab some popcorn & get yourself a copy.
What a ride!
Ben Koenig is my kind of action hero. Fearless doesn't cover it. This book moves at pace & with short, sharp chapters & I found myself flying through the action.
This is a huge step away from Tilly & Poe, but M.W Craven maintains his immensely readable writing style & humour which, for me, are key to him being one of my favourite authors. The story is cleverly plotted & completely entertaining. I did miss the easy banter element that you get from Poe's team, but I'm hoping there might be a bit more of that to come as the series progresses & we get more relationship development from some of the fantastic secondary characters, who I hope crop up again. I've seen this mentioned alongside Jack Reacher & it is similar, but with a dry sense of humour thrown in too. Reading Fearless is like watching a slick action movie, so grab some popcorn & get yourself a copy.
October 14, 2023
3.5 stars. Lots of action and ammo.
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